Dalby man steals bike after borrowing it to buy cigarettes

The search for a stolen bike has led to a Dalby man being found in possession of a knife and methamphetamine.

A 27-year-old Dalby man has fronted court after “borrowing” a friend’s bike to buy cigarettes then blocking the victim when he asked for it back.

Michael Fogarty appeared in Dalby District Court where he pleaded guilty to stealing a bike, possessing methamphetamine, possessing a knife and failing to dispose of a needle.

The court was told on December 21 Fogarty attended the victim’s address and asked if he could borrow their bike to get some cigarettes from the shop.

The victim agreed and after an hour of waiting they called Fogarty to see where he was at which point he blocked them.

Later that day police intercepted Fogarty riding a scooter and questioned him about the bike with him denying stealing it and saying he didn't even know the victim.

A search of Fogarty revealed a clip seal bag containing methamphetamine and a knife.

Fogarty told police he was carrying a knife for his protection as he believed people were out to get him.

Police prosecutor Chris Hutchins said whether people were actually after him for a drug debt or if it was in his head, it all stemmed from his drug addiction.

Meanwhile on March 6 police attended Fogarty’s property where they discovered used needles which hadn't be correctly disposed of.

During sentencing Magistrate Kathleen Payne noted Fogarty’s extensive seven year criminal history.

He was fined $800 and a conviction was recorded.

Originally published as Dalby man steals bike after borrowing it to buy cigarettes